Hansen set for final bow on MOTD

Outgoing Match Of The Day pundit Alan Hansen says he will miss the team on the show as he prepares for his final appearance this weekend, bowing out after 22 years.

The programme regular will step down after Sunday's edition although he will continue on screen for the BBC's coverage of the World Cup this summer.

He said of his last MOTD, to be screened at 10.30pm : "I will mostly miss the people, who have been fantastic to work with.

"I always loved the special atmosphere of a dressing room, and the atmosphere in Match Of The Day was often pretty close to that. It's such an iconic programme, but the great people on it have made it even better to be involved with.

"To finish my career at the World Cup in Brazil is the ultimate. I grew up watching that 1970 Brazil team and to be there as a pundit will be a fantastic way to end my BBC career."

Match Of The Day presenter Gary Lineker paid tribute as he said: "In my opinion, as a television football pundit Alan Hansen has been for two decades consistently the best. Opinionated, knowledgeable and tactically superb."

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The BBC's football boss Mark Cole said: "Alan has changed the world of football punditry as we know it. Throughout his time at the BBC he has brought a unique tactical perspective to analysis and has paved the way for others to follow.

"We will all miss him greatly at Match Of The Day and wish him the best in his retirement after the World Cup in Brazil."

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